Studying Abroad FAQs

We answer your questions.

Am I eligible to study overseas?

To begin studying as an international student, there are a range of entry requirements you may have to meet.

The academic requirements (including evidence of English language skills) you need to apply will vary depending on the level of education you want to study. For example, some courses will require you to have done a foundation course before applying for a degree. All universities and schools can have different entry requirements, so read the course information on their websites carefully.

Our counsellors are here to support you with guidance on the courses and locations that best meet your preferences.

How much will it cost to study abroad?

The costs associated with studying at university or school overseas vary greatly. It depends on the nature of the program, the length of your stay, the distance you travel and the kind of lifestyle you want when you get there.

Be aware that some student visas require you to have a certain amount of funds available in your bank account when you arrive in your chosen country. It is best to review the immigration websites for the country you wish to study in or speak to one of our counsellors.

Many students choose to carry out some part-time work alongside their studies, to support their living or socialising costs. However, there are restrictions on the hours you are allowed to work to ensure you focus on your studies.

What should I consider when choosing what and where to study?

• When deciding what and where to study, start by thinking about your academic interests and your career goals.

• Take some time to research specific courses, subjects and options for internships or work placements.

• Look at the campus location, rankings, the amount of time you would like to spend away from home and the total cost of studying and living overseas.

• Think about what kind of lifestyle you prefer – do you want to be in a cosmopolitan city, or a quiet country town?

• Would you prefer to choose a city where there are other students from your nationality? Do you want to be close to the beach, the forest or the desert? Do you want to live on campus?

• If you would like to explore the option of staying in the country to work after your studies you will need to find out about the migration policies and visa conditions and also be aware that these government policies can change during the course of your study.

Will studying abroad help me find a good job?

Your career prospects will benefit hugely from your experience of studying, living and socialising overseas. It’s your opportunity to develop a wealth of new skills, perspectives and stronger English language skills and seek work experience from the sort of employers you’d like to work for.

A recent study conducted with more than 4,500 ex-international students explored the exact skills employers in the US value when it comes to recruiting people that have studied overseas.

Will my overseas qualification be accepted in my home country?

The skills and qualifications employers and professional registration bodies require will vary from country to country. If, for example, you are working towards a career with strict entry requirements such as medicine, engineering, accounting or teaching, do some research with the relevant registration bodies in your home country for advice.

What if I can’t afford to study overseas?

There are a limited number of scholarships and bursaries available for international students. The amount varies by level of study and by institution. Scholarships are competitive and you need to demonstrate exceptional academic achievements. Governments and other organisations also provide scholarships and awards to help international students study overseas. Your IDP counsellor will have details of various scholarships.

Can I work and study at the same time?

Working while you study can complement your study and living experience. If you pursue a course at degree level or above you may be permitted to work while on an international student visa. Before you undertake any paid work, you need to make sure that your visa allows it. The opportunity for students to work part-time during their studies varies from country to country.

Many universities have a dedicated job centre on-campus for students that advertise job opportunities to help students develop skills. University careers services can also be a useful source of information.

How long does the application process take?

We recommend you begin your application process at least a year in advance to give enough time for your applications to be processed and to prepare for your time overseas.

Bear in mind that the academic year begins at different times of year in different countries. Semester dates tend to run as follows:

Australia

Semester 1: starts late February/earlyMarch to late May/early June

Semester 2: starts late July/early August through to November

New Zealand

Semester 1: from February to June

Semester 2: from July to November

UK

Term 1: from September to December

Term 2: from January to April

Term 3: from April to June

USA

Fall Term: from August to December

Spring Term: from January to April

Summer Term: from May to August

The above dates are a guide only. You should always check exact dates with the university or college you are applying to.

Do I need an education agent?

While you can apply to study directly to an institution, you may choose to use the expertise of an agent to guide you through the process of choosing a university or school and enrolling. Using an accredited and trusted agent, like IDP, can help reduce the stress of choosing a school in another country, applying and preparing to leave.

Our student advisors (we call these student counsellors) are knowledgeable and up to date on curriculum changes, and have your best interests at heart. Most of them have studied overseas themselves so they have been in your shoes and can offer first hand advice every step of the way.

What if my parents don’t want me to go overseas?

It’s natural for your family to be nervous about letting their most precious loved ones travel alone to a new country. Millions of students have done so and thrived, but this doesn’t make it less difficult for parents to accept.

We encourage you to involve your parents in any discussions or appointments you have with IDP. With the reassurance of an education agent like IDP, your parents may feel more confident that there is a professional and responsible organisation assisting you in your applications and preparations.

Who are IDP?

IDP is a global leader in international education. We help students study overseas in English speaking countries. We’ve been doing it for 50 years, creating a huge network of opportunity across 32 countries. Our experienced education counsellors work with you to turn your study plan into a launch pad for professional success and personal growth.

Reasons students choose IDP

Zoe, Jacob, Naresh and Kenny tell us how IDP helped them achieve their study and career goals in Australia

Will IDP Education help me with advice after I am offered a place?

Our service extends beyond study advice and applications. We can help you get all the essential services you’ll need while living abroad — health insurance, foreign exchange, accommodation, setting up a bank account and obtaining a SIM card.

We organise pre-departure orientations that cover topics such as: student life in your new country, advice on adapting to the culture and how to deal with homesickness.

We also host welcome activities when you arrive in your new city where you’ll meet fellow and former international students from around the world.

How much do IDP’s services cost?

Our services are free for students. There is no cost to students to book an appointment with IDP. There may be some small fees such as courier costs or document verification fees. For more information, phone or speak to your nearest IDP office or complete our enquiry form.

Does IDP Education have any special relationship with specific institutions? How many universities and colleges does IDP work with?

Yes, we partner with more than 600 leading universities and institutions around the world. 

As a world leader in international student services, with over 45 years of experience, IDP only works with the universities, colleges and schools we know to be of a high standard. This is based on official, academic reviews of those institutions as well as our experience of working with them and the experiences of our students.